Скачать или смотреть Behind the Scenes | ACL Rehab with a HS Football Athlete at APEX PWR

Why use electrical stimulation (e-stim) as early as possible after ACL reconstruction?

In the early post-operative phase, the quadriceps often shut down due to pain, joint swelling, and neural inhibition. Even when a patient is trying to contract the quad, the brain may not be able to effectively activate the muscle. This is one of the biggest barriers to early strength recovery after ACL surgery.

E-stim helps restore the brain to quadriceps connection, allowing the muscle to contract when voluntary activation is limited. By providing an external stimulus, we can improve muscle firing and begin rebuilding strength sooner, without overloading the healing knee.

Benefits of e-stim early after ACL reconstruction include:
• Improved quadriceps activation
• Increased motor unit recruitment
• Reduced neural inhibition
• Limiting excessive quadriceps atrophy

When used correctly and under professional guidance, e-stim supports early strength preservation and sets the foundation for more advanced rehab phases.

💡 Pro tip: Pair e-stim with quad sets and straight-leg raises. Actively contracting the muscle during stimulation reinforces motor learning and improves carryover to functional movement.

This early focus on quad activation plays a major role in safer progression toward walking, running, and return to sport.

#acl #kneerehab #physicaltherapy #sportsrehab